SUBMITTED NEWS RELEASE
The Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority kicked off two major conventions with a press event Friday. Combined, The National Tour Association’s Annual Convention and the World Religious Travel Association Expo and Educational Conference bring nearly 2,500 visitors to the Reno Tahoe region.
The 2009 event marks the second time NTA has hosted its annual conference in Reno Tahoe. The group was last here in 1985.
The NTA estimates the local direct economic impact of this conference is approximately $2.9 million.
It is the WRTA’s first time in the destination. The group estimates that more than 400 members will participate in the 2009 Expo and Educational Conference.
Approximately one out of every six visitors to Washoe County comes for a meeting, convention or tradeshow, according to the RSCVA’s most recent Visitor Profile Study. Annually, meeting and convention groups economically benefit the Reno Tahoe community by spending millions of dollars locally on accommodations, dining, entertainment, gaming, retail, transportation and other items.
The press event included remarks from Ellen Oppenheim, RSCVA President and CEO (pictured), Reno Mayor Bob Cashell, Suzanne Slavitter, NTA Convention 2009 chair, Kevin Wright, president, World Religious Travel Association.
